In stark contrast to my review of Tino Spieß and Vocal Producktions' Love Someone, there is nothing but praise for his production of Herzbewacher, both for Spieß's own contributions and that of his stellar collaborators.

First of all, it certainly doesn't hurt to have the songwriter singing the solo on the track. The nuance to Claudia Dechand's performance can be seen in everything from syllabic emphasis to care with ends of phrases. Her work is a marvel. Whether it be to emulate instruments or provide true vocal moments, Spieß's a cappella band, B'n'T, provides a solid background in concert with Dechand throughout. B'n'T's sensitivity to feel, vibe, and dynamic contrast is on full display.

Spieß's own work as percussionist and studio jack-of-all-trades are major highlights here as well; rather than try to recreate the full-reverb sound of Dechand's original track, his emphasis on capturing a natural sound in both the solo and background voices creates a slightly more casual, almost unplugged sort of experience that serves Simon Wagner's appropriately textured and varied arrangement.

All in all, Herzbewacher is a major success for Tino Spieß and Vocal Producktions and I can't recommend it highly enough.